Wildman D (2011) Shark bite morphometrics: using forensic analysis to determine shark species and length. Unpublished third year undergraduate report, School of Environmental Science & Management, Southern Cross University, Lismore. 22pp.

Summary

Over the past decades, with an increased use of the marine environment, shark attacks are on the increase. Approximately 1.1 fatalities occur per annum however not always do we know what species is responsible and the size of the “culprit”. Similar to terrestrial organisms, each species of shark will have differences in its jaw structure and dental structure. Patterns of bite damage have previously been used to estimate shark size with limited success. Having the ability to effectively estimate total length and species of sharks responsible for attack can allow for better management and protection of both beach users and sharks. This study outlines measures of jaw morphometrics for the bull shark Carcharhinus leucas, great white Carcharodon carcharias and tiger shark Galeocerdo cuvier. Measurements of interdental distance and jaw circumference have been compared with total length for each species and a predictive pattern for estimating the total length of a shark is provided. When this data is used in collaboration with general shark characteristics such as feeding behaviour, habitat preference and distribution, an accurate means of determining shark species and length is developed.